Syracuse University football offensive tackle Justin Pugh began to practice with his fellow offensive linemen today, a sign his return to action is approaching.Frank Ordoñez / The Post-Standard

Syracuse, NY -- The Syracuse University football team practiced outside this afternoon on a beautiful late summer afternoon in preparation for Saturday’s 4 p.m. game vs. Stony Brook in the Carrier Dome. There was one significant departure from the Orange’s recent midweek practice routine.

Junior offensive tackle Justin Pugh, a first-team All-Big East selection last season, began individual one-on-one work with the other offensive linemen. Pugh has been recovering from off-season surgery to his left shoulder. His run of 25 consecutive starts ended in the season opener vs. Northwestern and continued in Saturday’s 42-29 loss vs. USC at MetLife Stadium.

Pugh will not play Saturday when the Orange (0-2) faces FCS opponent Stony Brook (2-0). He has been replaced by sophomore Sean Hickey, who has done an admirable job thus far and could move back to his more natural right tackle spot to challenge senior Lou Alexander when Pugh is ready to return.

That return appears to be getting closer if today’s practice was any indication, as Pugh participated in one-on-one work with the other offensive linemen, working on footwork, angles and hand placement against a teammate holding a shield. He appeared to be in midseason form. Pugh remained out of any live hitting, sticking his head into the huddle to get used to hearing the play-calls again and then standing behind Hickey and watching.

The logical guess for Pugh’s return would be SU’s Big East opener vs. Pittsburgh on Oct. 5 in the Dome following the team’s lone off week of the season. That noted, there is an outside chance he could return Sept. 22 at Minnesota.